The Do It All Evergreen: Why Every Garden Needs a Yew

If you're looking for a plant that can truly do it all, it's hard to beat the Yew. One of the biggest reasons I recommend them to clients is their incredible adaptability. They are one of the few evergreens that will thrive whether they are in full sun, part sun or shade.

Yews come in many shapes and sizes, making them perfect for a variety of applications. While they are most commonly used for hedging and mass planting, they also make a striking specimen plant, especially the golden or lime green varieties, which hold their bright colour all year round.

Two of the most popular choices, commonly used for hedging, are the famous Hicks and Hills Yews. They look very similar, but with one key difference, the Hicks variety produces red fruits that add a nice pop of colour. Just a heads up, those berries can get a little messy if the birds get into them!

One of the best things about Yews is how customizable they are. You can prune and shape them into almost any form to fit your personality or the style you're going for. Once established, they are incredibly low maintenance, requiring very little water or fertilizer to stay healthy and vibrant.

Bonus Tip: They are the ultimate Boxwood substitute.

If you've noticed your Boxwoods struggling over the past couple of years, you aren't alone. With the Box Tree Moth causing so much trouble in our area lately, Yews have become one of my go-to substitutes. They provide the same classic, contemporary look but are much more resilient against pests.

Are you ready to swap out struggling shrubs or add some year round structure to your garden? Wildrock Construction is currently booking for spring 2026. Reach out and tell me about your project.